Module 2.1-2.2

Christian Vocation

The call for individuals to live out their faith and moral responsibilities in relation to God.

Values of Kingdom of God

Principles that guide moral behavior and ethical living in accordance with Christian teachings.

Moral Theology

The study of moral principles and their application within the context of Christian faith.

Christian Ethics

The moral framework derived from Christian teachings that guides behavior and decision-making.

International Theological Commission

A body that addresses moral issues and seeks a universal ethic, particularly in response to moral relativism.

Moral Relativism

The belief that moral truths are not absolute but vary across cultures and contexts.

Objective Morality

The concept that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, independent of individual beliefs.

Subjective Morality

The idea that moral judgments depend on the actor's perspective, leading to classifications of good or bad.

Sources of Catholic Moral Tradition

The foundations of Catholic ethics, including Scripture, Tradition, Human Experience, and Magisterium.

Natural Law

A moral theory positing that there is an objective moral order discoverable through human reason.

Ontological Premise of Natural Law

The belief that the world has an inherent order that exists prior to human existence.

Epistemological Premise of Natural Law

The idea that humans can use reason to understand the moral order.

Thomistic Natural Law Tradition

A robust moral theory rooted in the philosophy of Thomas Aquinas, emphasizing natural inclinations.

Basic Human Inclinations

Fundamental drives such as self-preservation, reproduction, sociability, and knowledge that align with human flourishing.

Christian Adaptation of Natural Law

The integration of Greek Stoic philosophy into Christian thought, viewing natural law as participation in God's Eternal Law.

Divine Revelation

The belief that God’s guidance is necessary for understanding moral truths beyond natural law.

Rational Direction of Life

The idea that natural law provides a reasoned approach to living in accordance with human nature.

Importance of Natural Law

Supports moral realism and serves as a basis for dialogue across cultures and religions.

Pluralist Approach to Natural Law

Acknowledges multiple cultural perspectives and allows for variations in moral norms.

Universalist Approach to Natural Law

Advocates for a single standard of morality applicable across different contexts.

Practical Wisdom (Prudence)

The ability to make sound moral decisions in pursuit of human flourishing (eudaimonia).

Teleological View of the Human Person

A perspective that sees human actions as directed towards specific goals or purposes.